Local Guides World
Top Gay bars in Seattle, United States
Top Rated Gay bars in Seattle
Top Reviewed Gay bars in Seattle
Reviews
i love coming here BUT the bartender (older, male, glasses) is always SO. RUDE. every time i go. i’m not sure what’s going on there, but they seem like they shouldn’t be working with the public. maybe back-of-house is better suited for your attitude.
2 stars bcz i like the touch tunes & claw machine.
2 stars bcz i like the touch tunes & claw machine.
i love this space and it’s a regular part of my rotation of queer spaces!! however, the older bar tender (hat, glasses) is always incredibly rude to me and my friends…like, really rude. i guess not everyone is meant for customer service… good luck with your tips!
Not a good place to go if you present as a cis straight woman. Was treated very rudely BY the bartender until my very handsome gay-presenting male friend joined me. Then it was a game changer and bartender was all smiles and cooed like a pigeon in love. I decided to leave with a few choice words about the discrimination I recived from the bartender (and even from a couple of patrons) taking my handsome drinking buddy with me. Community? Pppft! NOT HERE!
Spontaneously took a friend here for their first purchase of an alcoholic beverage! Front door person was sweet and wished them a Happy Birthday! I received no grief for being a bearded enby amab in a dress. The bartender was spunky and told us a whole as story about their lube wrestling experience while preparing our drinks. Was cute as heck and made my lil BB queer friend blush. Great first bartender experience.
They also had a good selection of NA beverages for my other friend, who was happy to have a CBD seltzer.
It was absolutely dead when we arrived after Trivia night was over. Three other folks in total, so we chilled on the couch, had our drink, and bounced. Was a nice lil safe space.
They also had a good selection of NA beverages for my other friend, who was happy to have a CBD seltzer.
It was absolutely dead when we arrived after Trivia night was over. Three other folks in total, so we chilled on the couch, had our drink, and bounced. Was a nice lil safe space.
Hadn’t been here before, but met an awesome person, J from Chicago. Left with a handshake because I suck at this. Hoping they see this. Ig: @drhysjones.
Nice bolt hole for out of town visitors in need of a friendly hole
Please find a new DJ. I feel like I walk-in to the same song every time I go. We’re queer, play more queer artists…
This is the only place to be in Seattle! Amazing drinks and an incredible staff!
I would not recommend unless you fit a certain ‘type’ of lesbian. I was super stoked to be spending a memorable birthday with my partner on a queer vacation only to be disappointed. As a masc nonbinary individual with a non-typical appearance, I was not felt to be welcome. Adversely, I was made to feel very much UNWELCOME, and, excluded to the point that I would want to warn those who border non-typical queer stereotypes as perpetrated by the employees and culture of the WILDROSE. I’m leaving queer Seattle disappointed, but I am made very much aware that there is a lot of work to do about inclusivity within our LGBTQA+ community. How can we make global progress without internal progression? I hope WILDROSE, as one of the FEW remaining lesbian bars, educate staff and community about the expansive limitless love and understanding that IS the FOUNDATION of our community.
Everything about Wildrose is phenomenal! the bartenders were amazing, the drinks were delicious, and the thursday karaoke was so fun! definitely felt safe and comfortable there! i’d recommend a dirty shirley with vanilla vodka!
My boyfriend and I visited from New York on a Saturday afternoon. We had a great time getting a few drinks.
Crowd seemed nice enough.
Drinks were pretty good, for Seattle.
Didn't get to check out a dance party or a RDR watch party - can't wait for next time.
Crowd seemed nice enough.
Drinks were pretty good, for Seattle.
Didn't get to check out a dance party or a RDR watch party - can't wait for next time.
Amazing gay bar where you can meet bears and daddies, which I have been ogling the entire time with friends ;)
Didn't have any food there so I can't really rate. Had my first ever shot of whiskey here and I can say that my first time drinking whiskey will forever be remembered at a gay bar in Seattle. Of course straight men, proceed with caution because you'll either be discriminated or kicked out unfortunately. Otherwise, give this bar a shot! Totally worth it!
Didn't have any food there so I can't really rate. Had my first ever shot of whiskey here and I can say that my first time drinking whiskey will forever be remembered at a gay bar in Seattle. Of course straight men, proceed with caution because you'll either be discriminated or kicked out unfortunately. Otherwise, give this bar a shot! Totally worth it!
Let’s start by saying I’m straight. Went in to this establishment with my wife and our gay friends since we were in the area. I’ve never been to a gay bar, but was excited to give it a go with our friends. Let’s just say I’ve never felt so discriminated against in my life, as someone who fully supports the scene and thinks anyone should be able to live life however they want… it was quite disturbing to be looked and and treated the way we were in here. The bartender was super rude and didn’t seem thrilled to be helping the straight couple. We ordered very simple whiskey sours, our drink was literally whiskey and water. So gross. Just a gross energy too honestly.
Def won’t be back here, but looking forward to trying out some of the other spots in the area. I will tell people to try anywhere but here and personally look forward to trying out some of the other places in the area with our friends.
Def won’t be back here, but looking forward to trying out some of the other spots in the area. I will tell people to try anywhere but here and personally look forward to trying out some of the other places in the area with our friends.
The best bear bar in the city! Hot guys, stiff drinks, good atmosphere!
The bartender Dan was a delight to chat with. Great drinks, though no food options.
Was visiting from Tulsa when I recently had an unfortunate experience at Union, a gay bar in Seattle, and I feel compelled to share my disappointment, particularly regarding the conduct of the owner/manager, whose attitude tarnished the entire visit.
From the outset, it was evident that the atmosphere was affected by an unwelcoming energy. Could have just been the night I thought as I fully understand that the service industry can be hard. But I noticed several points of friction with a few patrons that were uncalled for. I witnessed an attitude that was consistently mean and unapproachable, creating an uncomfortable environment for my group. It was disheartening to witness such lackluster customer service, especially in a place that should embody inclusivity and warmth.
The negative encounter with management overshadowed any positive aspects of the bar (my server and bar tender were great). It's truly disconcerting when the management team fails to uphold the principles of hospitality and inclusiveness, which are vital for any LGBTQ+ venue. I hope the management takes steps to address these issues, as a welcoming and respectful environment should be a priority for any establishment in the LGBTQ+ community.
From the outset, it was evident that the atmosphere was affected by an unwelcoming energy. Could have just been the night I thought as I fully understand that the service industry can be hard. But I noticed several points of friction with a few patrons that were uncalled for. I witnessed an attitude that was consistently mean and unapproachable, creating an uncomfortable environment for my group. It was disheartening to witness such lackluster customer service, especially in a place that should embody inclusivity and warmth.
The negative encounter with management overshadowed any positive aspects of the bar (my server and bar tender were great). It's truly disconcerting when the management team fails to uphold the principles of hospitality and inclusiveness, which are vital for any LGBTQ+ venue. I hope the management takes steps to address these issues, as a welcoming and respectful environment should be a priority for any establishment in the LGBTQ+ community.
Well it's still a gay bar atleast.. But unless you are in the minority that smokes, stay clear...
Great neighborhood bar. Oldest Gay bar in Seattle with Karaoke 7 days a week. Great drinks and atmosphere.
Always a fun place, had to make it one of my stops on my bday bar crawl yesterday. Also one of the few karaoke places where people don't make you feel like you need to be a pro, it's just about having fun!
A drunk guy came out of the bar and started talking to us clearly slurring his words. He was heading towards some parked cars and we asked him if he was driving - he assured us he was only getting his pool cue. Then we see him get into the drivers seat and drive off. We called the police and then returned to Madison’s to let the bartender know there was a drunk patron who left in a car making sure to be very nice about it. Well this patron was back at the bar, the bartender started to get aggressive pointing out the patron saying he know how many drinks he served him. The patron came up and got right in my face aggressively confronting me. My partner stepped in and the patron told him to back off. The bartender or patron (I can’t remember) said they called the cops on us. Then the bartender put his hands on my partner’s chest and shoved him hard which is assault. This is what you get for trying to be a decent person. The drunk driver could have killed someone. Think about this next time you are in Madison’s.
As a tourist, the place is awesome, loved the vibe. Drinks are decently priced. Dancefloor can be fun but... bruh, the same beat all night long, that was quite disappointing.
Ruvin, the bartender, has the MOST AMAZING mixed drinks! I gave him a couple of things I was looking for, and he made me the most delicious drinks all night! I cannot recommend this place enough (as long as you like karaoke)! Thank you Ruvin for an awesome night!!!
Seattle’s Bear Bar. From Taco Tuesday to 3rd Thursday Leather Night, this is one of the great classic gay bars in the country. Strong drinks, dark corners, friendly staff and patrons, and no gimmicks. A true treasure.
Lol $10 cash only on a Friday with ZERO line. Okay... We were visiting but if you can't even update your establishment to accept credit cards/tap-to-pay how do I know you've adapting to keep the community safe in your space? Sincerely, Austin, Tx 🤷♂️
Diesel is where you go to start the night for sure. The drinks are STRONG and affordable. Crowd leans bear and leather with all the affordances and limitations of that scene.
Pony is where the queers live and we love it. Scary-ann checking ids sets the tone. A much more diverse crowd, in all senses of the word, though it does lean young. When you’re going out to the bars, you gotta hit up Pony!
Your neighborhood queer karaoke dive bar. Jeff the day bartender is amazing! The regulars make out of towners feel welcome and their song collection is top notch.
Pony will always have my heart and I always enjoy my time here.
This place has gone down hill. Before Covid, I went here and had a good time, but after Covid is an another story since ownership changed and they didn’t change the name after buying this club. We went in January 2023 and the service was okay, but the crowd here just isn’t what we vibe with. However, during pride weekend, we attended and the club was packed to way over capacity. I went outside to get some air and they locked all the doors and didn’t let anyone back in, or out of the club. My husband was texting me that they wouldn’t let anyone out and it was probably one of the scariest things because they did not provide any reasoning, which impacted our health and safety. I feel bad for anyone who did not get in and paid for a weekend pass and I hope they called their bank and reported that they didn’t get what they paid for.
I have not returned since pride and don’t have the itch to go here during my free time.
I have not returned since pride and don’t have the itch to go here during my free time.
I went to Cuff for the first time after hearing absolutely nothing but rave reviews. It is currently 5pm on Sunday October 8th and I felt I had to leave this place. I sashayed in (as I do) had a great conversation with the security guard and bartender. I was impressed with the place and had questions. I ordered a cocktail and went to explore the bar. I come back and the bartender says he doesn’t feel comfortable serving me. He had started making the drink then refused me. As a business owner I like for other business owners to be made aware of when they have low vibrational people hurting their business reputation. As a licensed bartender (podcast host - retailer - Air Force Veteran - among other things) myself I know that some bartenders just like to feel like they have power over people just because they feel so inferior and just because they can. I did nothing wrong. I did not stumble in. I also did not slur my speech. The DJ + security guard (who would not have let me in if I was wasted) can vouch for this. This is negative energy attempting to dim my light and I will not let that happen. I walked to a different gay bar and will go back to Cuff and get a different bartender. 🧡💫✨
Is this place always a TERF bar or just some of the time? Was about as friendly as a Chick-fil-A. Bartender skipped my trans partner and tried to ignore her, Door guy repeatedly misgendered both of us, and when my partner went on the dance floor(which was packed) people still moved away from her to form a gap of space around her, so it wasn't all staff. Just another disappointing experience.
The oldest lesbian bar West of the Mississippi River. An excellent establishment with good food, pleasant staff, and well trained security. I would highly recommend this establishment. Be kind. I suggest the Mac& cheese
I was having a rough night. Unprompted and without me saying a word, both the patrons and bartenders treated me with the utmost kindness and welcomed me with (literal) open arms. Places like this are a reminder of the power and impact of our community. Places like this are a light in the dark of this life. Through even the “smallest” of gestures I was reminded that we can evolved into good things and that hope exists in random places - that night it was this pub.
They consistently play LOUD music Wednesday through Sunday! I understand playing extremely loud music on Friday and Saturday night from day 10pm-2am but the same volume on Sundays and weekdays shows a complete disregard for the neighboring apartments. People actually have jobs and want to wind down at their homes.
Please consider investing in better acoustics for the club or lower the volume of music. People actually have a life outside of partying every single night.
Please consider investing in better acoustics for the club or lower the volume of music. People actually have a life outside of partying every single night.
Decent hangout spot. Really small area so sitting might be hard to find if you're there to stay and chill for a while. The public karaoke is fun, had no issues inside the establishment.
Can get a bit shifty outside with random people that weren't there for the karaoke loitering so be careful when you're exiting.
Can get a bit shifty outside with random people that weren't there for the karaoke loitering so be careful when you're exiting.
Thank you to everyone from staff to guests who shared their love and space with us tonight as we celebrated our wedding!
Everyone was welcoming and kind. It was 4 of us after our wedding (me, my new husband, maid of honor and best man).
As a queer black woman in a straight presenting relationship, I appreciate any time I get to spend in queer and gay spaces. From the moment we walked in it was all smiles and such outgoing kindness.
Thank you all for making our night so memorable.
Everyone was welcoming and kind. It was 4 of us after our wedding (me, my new husband, maid of honor and best man).
As a queer black woman in a straight presenting relationship, I appreciate any time I get to spend in queer and gay spaces. From the moment we walked in it was all smiles and such outgoing kindness.
Thank you all for making our night so memorable.
Friendly neighborhood non-intimidating gay bar that's been around for 39-ish years. Cozy atmosphere with TV screens for sporting events, trivia, and the Food Network. Full line up of liquor and a ton of beer choices on clean taps served in iced pint glasses. Jukebox at a level you can still hold a conversation with a friend or make new ones. Two pool tables, three dart boards and some pinball machines. Good layout with easy access to clean restrooms. They'll remember your name and what you drink. I've never had a bad experience there in the 20+ years I've been stopping by. They open at 11a daily.
I'm originally from the Buffalo NY area and I'm telling you, Union just might have the best Buffalo wings in town. The service was great, the vibes were chill and welcoming. I think I will be frequenting this spot much more in the future. Cheers!
Loved the staff and received amazing servicing. Cute friendly guys and great drinks. Definitely a great place to have a great night in Seattle
My friends and I had a blast here. We were visiting from Sacramento for a few days and spent each night here dancing. I wish we had a bar like this in our gayborhood! The DJ played the best music and the service here was amazing. The bartender Jen was friendly and had a really great vibe.
Staff is very nice. Felt nothing but respect the whole time I was there. It’s a little low key but perfect for my vibe.
This is a Seattle institution and comes with a lot of character and color! It is well worth frequenting especially if it’s a little slower and you get to hang out with the regulars and the staff. All lovely people.
Rundown 80s vibe. The music and atmosphere felt like we were stuck in the 70/80s the music is so dated it’s not relevant to today’s crowd. The downside is that there aren’t many clubs around the area so of course people still go. But given more options with better music this place would lose a lot of business.
The cash cover when you walk in the door is annoying. It’s 2023. Also if you’re going to have a cash cover maybe have an atm before the entrance so the line isn’t being backed up waiting for people to get cash to proceed.
GET BETTER DJs. Play music people actually enjoy.
The cash cover when you walk in the door is annoying. It’s 2023. Also if you’re going to have a cash cover maybe have an atm before the entrance so the line isn’t being backed up waiting for people to get cash to proceed.
GET BETTER DJs. Play music people actually enjoy.
Would have given a 5 if it weren’t for the entitled KJ. Put in a song 3 different times and each time he miraculously lost it or said he called me and I didn’t come up. There were 3 of us sitting right there and he would just skip and put in his friends. Rueben the bartender was awesome, super friendly and made it worthwhile. I would go again if Ken B was the karaoke host. He was the only reason I got in to sing to begin with. Bump him up to head karaoke host. All in all it was a great birthday vacation.
This place is a scam! I bought 4 tickets to their pride event while standing in line. As we are about 10 people away from the entrance the security guard said the club is closed. They are at capacity and won’t let anyone else in. I explained to the guard that we bought tickets to the event inside. He said we would have to contact management tomorrow for a refund. I have contact 2 people at The Cuff and See Tickets who was the third party selling tickets. Almost 4 weeks now and still no refund! NEVER BUY TICKETS BEFORE ENTERING!! THEY WILL STEAL YOUR MONEY!
PSA: NOT ALL ARE WELCOME HERE. We had the most shockingly rude and uncomfortable experience here last night. My friend brought us here because she has been here before and said this was a really fun gay bar. When my group walked into the bar and walked further in to check out the vibe of the bar in the back, the bartender at the bar in the front angrily shouted at us that we didn’t show him our IDs when we first came in. When we said sorry and walked back up to the front bar, the group of guys chilling at the bar with the bartender stared all of us down and started saying things like “you know this is a gay bar right?”, “there are other places you could go”, “why are you guys here?” all while bartender was angrily repeating that we didn’t show him our IDs earlier. We were in shock at how they were treating us and knew that we were clearly not welcome here, so right after showing him our IDs we decided to leave and wished them a good night. I’ve never been to a bar with such a mean, unwelcoming group of staff and regulars before. This shouldn’t matter at all, but some of our group are lgbtq. I guess if you’re not a group of gay men, you will be passive aggressively (or aggressively) shooed out.
Fun music. Bad drinks but cheap! Don’t think I’d walk in if I was fully sober but I think that’s the fun part!
"The gay club is a vibrant and inclusive space that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging. The music is fantastic, the atmosphere is electric, and the crowd is filled with positive energy. It's a place where you can dance, be yourself, and connect with like-minded individuals. The staff is friendly and welcoming, ensuring everyone has a great time. Whether you're a regular or visiting for the first time, this club creates unforgettable experiences. Highly recommended for a night of fun, acceptance, and freedom of expression."
I get my lovely burger 🍔 last night from my favorite place Union. absolutely delicious specially I order it from my favorite person sweetheart (Erin ) such a sweet and kind person. 🥰🥰
This is one of my favorite gay bars in the world! It is unapologetically a queer space!! Every time I go, I always have the best time. Support this iconic institution anytime you can.
Super friendly gay bar and lots of good selections on food/drinks. It’s my first bar to get warm up (buzz) and great to be socializing with friends. Love it 😍
I’ve been here twice for karaoke Saturdays and the crowd is very fun and supportive. They would sing along and encourage you. The staff is super fun and kind!
Had a blast here on a random Monday night. Great bartender, fun DJ, and good vibes. Will come back next time I am in town.
I love this spot! The bartenders are very professional and courteous! Drinks are strong and the food is always on point!
First, we love coming to Diesel. Affordable stiff drinks, hot guys. What else could I ask for? Well, as I stand around and look at the bar, I wonder about the images on the wall. Beautiful hot guys, wallpapered on the wall. Feels great until I noticed that there isn't one image showing the beautiful bears of color there. As I looked through the patrons on Friday, it was mostly white guys. I wonder if bears of color feel welcome at Diesel. Sad. I wonder if this is a missed chance for revenue.
Sunday Funday at this upscale gay friendly bar was an awesome experience. We enjoyed the vibes and new friends we met. Great job Seattle from TEXAS.
I’ve been coming here since it was the J&L, lovingly referred to as Judy’ Lounge. It’s currently got some in the plus category, and plenty in the minus, but I’m reviewing for one reason only: a current bartender thinks it’s funny, or hot, or something, to slap his cricket bat, or other paddle, loudly on the bar. In a climate where we might well expect gunfire in the Eagle, this is not funny, or hot. Make him stop.
When I first started going to Diesel, I wasn't sure what to think. I'm not massively active in the Seattle scene and to me Diesel was just "another bar". I was so wrong, Diesel is home away from home when I come to Seattle. Everyone at the bar from Mac (The door guy) to Mike (The owner) has been so friendly and kind. The have tried to make Diesel so welcoming and it shows every time I visit.
Please stop by Diesel! Yes, it's "A bear bar", but everyone is welcome! The drinks are strong, music is good, and atmosphere is perfect!
Please stop by Diesel! Yes, it's "A bear bar", but everyone is welcome! The drinks are strong, music is good, and atmosphere is perfect!
The bartender was being racist towards my friend who is POC. The bartender kicked him out when he went up to order his first drinks of the night. When my friend asked why he was kicked out and all the bartender said was that he is annoying. No one else in our group had issues. This behavior should not be tolerated.
Ouchhhhhh! 12oz beer for the price of a pint
Cmon! Otherwise a 5 ⭐️
Cmon! Otherwise a 5 ⭐️
Don't come here for the drinks. It's not their strength. I had the wine, it tasted like very citric feet.
Glad Union has reopened. The new location has a great vibe, with plenty of open space and socially distant tables.
Service was a little slow initially, but it looks like they have more staff now and it’s much better.
The food is great! I’ve had several meals from their menu and was surprised by all of them, especially the breakfast burger on the Sunday Brunch menu.
The spot is great for happy hour, a night out with friends or Sunday brunch.
Service was a little slow initially, but it looks like they have more staff now and it’s much better.
The food is great! I’ve had several meals from their menu and was surprised by all of them, especially the breakfast burger on the Sunday Brunch menu.
The spot is great for happy hour, a night out with friends or Sunday brunch.
This bar is easily in my top three bars in the entire world. The music is always on point, especially if you have good taste. The bartenders pour amazing drinks, and are always incredibly welcoming to queer and queer allies. The balcony is the best place to spend an evening or an afternoon. This place is for all of you out there who have an edge, whatever that may be. No top 40!
Super friendly queer crowd, I definitely felt at home and safe there. The drinks are cheap and they have Karaoke on Tuesdays! Prepare yourself for some obscure taste in music (which I absolutely love!) and have fun singing along. Definitely my favourite bar!